4 Things You Might Not Know You Can Save On At A Warehouse Store

The typical mental image of shopping at a warehouse store like Costco or Sam’s Club is shopping carts overflowing with bulk packs of toilet paper and kitty litter. But those who have actually shopped at these places know that you can purchase a lot more than just huge packages of the bare necessities. And in addition to the stuff you’d find at most superstores, warehouse clubs may have some additional perks you won’t get too many other places.

The folks at SmartMoney put together a round-up of unexpected warehouse club savings. Here are some of the highlights:

Gasoline: “Warehouse clubs tend to price their fuel at a loss to get shoppers in the store, so members who live close to their club can save a bundle on gas.” SmartMoney cites one example of a PA Sam’s Club where gas is $.13/gallon cheaper than at the least-expensive competitor.

Insurance: SmartMoney reports that BJ’s offers a 10% discount through Liberty Mutual, while Costco promises savings of “up to $485.66” through Ameriprise.

Tickets: Buy your tickets to movie theaters and amusement parks in advance at the store to save upward of 30%.

Cars: Some warehouse clubs offer pre-negotiated car prices with local dealerships that can save you up to 10% of the sticker price. “I wouldn’t join a club just for the car-buying service, but if you’re a member already, you’d be foolish not to take advantage of it,” Phil Reed, consumer advice editor for Edmunds.com tells SmartMoney.